Due to the rise in COVID-19 cases, school field trips throughout Virginia Beach Public Schools have been all but eliminated. Academic and extracurricular activities are affected differently by this new policy. Sports teams and other Virginia High School League sponsored activities are still allowed to travel for meets and competitions, but general class field trips are on pause for now.

“Field trips are a big part of Academy Theatre and forensics, especially because they are extremely collaborative and we work with organizations outside the building a lot,” said senoir Mansha Nain. 

Field trips serve as an extension of learning. For activities that involve performing arts, such as orchestras, bands, and dance teams, it serves as a chance for these students to perform outside of the building. 

“They [field trips] provide a broader sense of understanding on a certain topic,” said senior Dana Potter, who is a member of the VPAA instrumental strand, volleyball team, and gymnastics team. “For example, in music, if we were to travel somewhere else where music is much more lively or from a different region, that would help us to understand different cultures and preferences.”

The consensus seems to be that we miss field trips, but we understand why we can’t have them right now. This restriction is a way to help keep the community safe. 

“I think it is in the best interest for the health of the students, teachers, and community to limit contact when possible,” said Vocal Strand Director Corbin Pinto. “Field trips are co-curricular for my classes and not being able to participate fully is not changing the heart of my curriculum.”

As COVID-19 cases continue to rise throughout Virginia Beach, this policy shows no sign of lifting any time soon.